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“Research has shown that GLP-1s can also reduce cardiovascular risk factors and treat other conditions, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease.”
Dr. Munir has extensive clinical experience in treating patients with diabetes, thyroid disorders, and pituitary diseases and has active research protocols for thyroid and metabolic diseases. He is also experienced in the use of GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic, which were originally indicated for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but have been found to aid in weight loss. Here he speaks to Baltimore about the GLP-1 Clinic at the university’s Midtown Campus and its research into the many ways GLP-1 medications can be applied to overall health.
Explain the work being done at the GLP-1 Clinic at the university system’s Midtown Campus.
At our new metabolic disease clinic, we are focusing on the treatment of metabolic disorders associated with obesity, including kidney disease, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease. Our goal is to use a comprehensive approach to improve patient health outcomes. Our team includes not only physicians but also dieticians and behavioral therapists to help patients make lasting changes to their health. Our comprehensive approach to patient care also includes the use of medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
People may know GLP-1 medications as a weight loss drug; explain what GLP-1s are and how they work.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications approved for use for over 20 years. Initially, the medication was used to treat diabetes and given as a twice-daily injection. As new formulations have been developed, there are now long-acting weekly injectable and daily oral versions of the medication. When incorporated with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, these medications can help improve a patient’s overall relationship with food.
How do GLP-1 medications help people with weight loss?
GLP-1 is a hormone made by the gut in our bodies. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the effects of our body’s GLP-1. They are given at doses that result in higher levels of activity than our bodies produce. GLP-1 increases insulin secretion and lowers glucagon levels (a hormone that antagonizes insulin). They increase satiety, making patients feel less hungry and reducing the need for excessive snacking, as well as slowing stomach emptying.
What are the limitations of GLP-1 medications for weight loss?
GLP-1 medications often have a significant impact on weight loss. However, not everyone loses weight on the medication, although most do. It is important for patients considering these medications to evaluate all factors that affect weight, not just diet. There are also potential side effects that some patients experience. These are mostly gastrointestinal in nature, which can limit the effectiveness of these medications for those people.
Do GLP-1 medications have capabilities beyond weight loss?
Weight loss is just one aspect of what these medications can do. At our center, we have seen patients who have been prescribed GLP-1s enjoy several health benefits. Research has shown that GLP-1s can also reduce cardiovascular risk factors and treat other conditions, such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease. These are all important metabolic conditions that carry risks of morbidity and mortality. Reducing these risks is a major benefit for GLP-1s.
Who might benefit from treatment with GLP-1 medication?
We treat a wide range of patients at our comprehensive center. People who struggle with obesity can benefit as well as those with other associated metabolic disorders.
Where does one begin if they think GLP-1 medication might be a good fit for their health needs?
By making an appointment with our comprehensive team at University Maryland, we can evaluate individuals and develop a treatment plan to address their health issues, including obesity. Our team is experienced in helping patients interested in these medications choose the path to better health that is right for them.
THOUGHT LEADER OF THE MONTH:
KASHIF M. MUNIR, MD
Professor of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine Vice-chief, Division of Endocrinology and Medical Director, University of Maryland Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology UM Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology
UMMC Midtown Campus
443-682-6800
ummidtown.org/diabetes